Why is the weather so important in skydiving?
Skydiving is a sport that depends very heavily on weather conditions. Safety is always the priority, which is why whether we jump on a given day is decided by the current weather — and not just what you can see outside the window on the ground. Conditions along the entire jump path matter: from exit altitude, through freefall, all the way to landing.
That is why we ask for flexibility: it is better to reschedule than to jump in conditions that reduce comfort and the safety margin.
What exactly do we take into account?
- Wind speed and gusts at ground level and at altitude
- Cloud base and cloud cover — whether the clouds are not too low and whether there is a so-called window for the jump
- Rainfall — jumping in the rain is unpleasant and reduces visibility
- Overall visibility
- Risk of storms as well as atmospheric instability and turbulence
Wind — the most common reason for postponements
A calm, steady wind within a safe range is not a problem. The issue is strong gusts and large differences in speed and direction (so-called shear), which make it harder to control the canopy and to land precisely and softly. Sometimes the wind is perfect in the morning, and then it picks up in the afternoon — and vice versa. That is why decisions are made on an ongoing basis.
Clouds, precipitation and storms
A cloud base that is too low means there is no “window” through which a jump can be made safely. Rain and poor visibility further limit possibilities, and near storms jumps are stopped without exception — this is an area where there are no compromises.
Why is the date sometimes moved?
The forecast can change within a few hours. Sometimes we wait for a “weather window” — a moment when all parameters simultaneously fall within safety standards. This is a normal part of skydiving, not an exception or a sign of problems. Experienced skydivers know well that patience is part of this sport.
How to prepare to avoid disappointment?
- Plan your jump flexibly and with extra time in reserve
- Treat the booking as an open date, not a fixed hour
- Stay in contact with the drop zone on the day of the jump
- If you are coming from far away, ask about the current conditions before setting off
Check the conditions before you arrive
We provide a weather conditions preview for our drop zones — take a look before you set off and stay in contact with the drop zone. This way you will save time and avoid unnecessary frustration.